Phase Research Projects

MC2 RESEARCH PROJECTS

For all research projects, follow the Research Cycle. For supporting documents, see the end of the page.

Phase I

Create a question to guide your research.
1. Brainstorm a list of every question that comes to mind, using Inspiration, a word processing program, or a large piece of paper.
2. Pick a question that doesn’t have an easy answer available for it, one for which you will have to develop your own opinion.

Develop a key word search as you research.
1. Identify the TOPIC of your main question. This is the word or phrase that you would first use to search for information.
2. Write down words/phrases that are more GENERAL than your topic.
3. Write words/phrases that are more SPECIFIC than your topic.
4. Write any words/phrases that are RELATED to your topic.
5. Add to your key word search as you do your research.

Gather information from at least FOUR sources, THREE different types of resources (books, magazines, internet, interviews, videotapes, television...)
1. Make sure you use the MC2 OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog you’re your Start menu as “Follett -> OPAC”.)
2. Check the MC2 videotape collection.
3. Use the First Class Library for resources – be sure to check SIRS.
4. Other MRHS online databases, such as EbscoHost.
5. If you have a Keene Public Library card, be sure to use the KPB online databases – Electric Library is a really good reference source.

Take NOTES.
1. For written materials, use POINT FORM NOTES (see form).

i. Read a chunk of information, then write down the most important facts your remember in your own words.
ii. Write only one idea per note space.
iii. If you need to copy some information, make certain you identify it as a quote.

For audio or visual materials, use CORNELL NOTETAKING (see form).

Be sure to record BIBLIOGRAPHIC information (see form). You need to identify where your information comes from and credit your sources.

Organize your notes/findings.
1. CUT up your notes. Sort them into piles (categories) of related information. (For instance, causes, events, people involved, outcomes.)
2. Label each pile with its category.
3. Decide what presentation order makes sense for your categories.

Determine how you've answered your question and WHAT NEW QUESTIONS YOU HAVE!

Figure out what you want to present to others about your question and what you've found out about it.

Determine the best presentation method (*?)

Rough draft

Peer edit (Some strategies: Use Track Changes in Word; Use Stickies on a project; Provide feedback on a presentation rubric)

Teacher feedback

Final take. Include Bibliography, using MLA format.

Phase 2
In addition to the requirements for Phase I Research Report:

1. Use at least SIX sources, THREE different types of resources.
2. Identify bias and opinion on your notes.
3. Incorporate at least two different points of view in your research report.
4. Use in text citations. Use MLA format.
5. Include an Annotated Bibliography. Use MLA format.

Phase 3

In addition to the requirements for Phase II Research Report:

1. After you have gathered information, draft a thesis statement. Get feedback from a teacher.
2. Gather more information relative to your thesis statement.
3. Use SIX to TEN sources.
4. Incorporate the following elements in your paper:
a. Perspective
b. Evidence
c. Connections
d. Relevance
e. What if?
5. Incorporate footnotes.
6. Your paper should be 10 – 15 pages long.